The Surrey RCMP is asking for help identifying the suspect in a sexual assault that occurred in a Newton Park this week.
Shortly after 6:50 p.m. on Feb. 16, 2021, Surrey RCMP responded to a report of a sex assault at Kwantlen Park, located in the area of 132 Street and 104 Avenue in Newton, explains a news release.
The victim initially met the male suspect near 132 Street and 105 Avenue and they walked to Kwantlen Park together. Upon arriving at the park, the man produced a weapon and sexually assaulted the victim.
Before RCMP arrived, the man had fled the scene. The victim was transported to an area hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.
Police believe there were witnesses
The suspect is described as a light-skinned male, with dark hair with a fade-style cut, possibly Middle Eastern, approximately 26 years old, slim build, wearing dark clothing.
Police believe there were witnesses in the area at the time of the assault. If you saw or heard this incident, you are asked to contact the Surrey RCMP at 604-599-0502.
Sex workers in Surrey made aware of the assault
The Surrey RCMP adds that "initial indications are that this attack is linked to street-level sex work." As a result, the RCMP has informed sex workers in Surrey of this assault so they can remain vigilant.
The Surrey RCMP SVU works closely with and in support of the Surrey Woman’s Centre’s SMART Van initiative, which it says was proactive in distributing this message. Additionally, the Surrey RCMP is increasing police patrols to areas frequented by local sex workers.
The decision to disclose that the victim is a sex worker is being provided to ensure that persons in this vulnerable group can be aware of this incident.
